With A strong emphasis on networking, wellness, and inclusivity, this event fosters a vibrant, uplifting atmosphere where women from across the state can connect, grow, and thrive.
Schedule of Events
Thursday, April 24
VIP KICKOFF
5:30 - 7:00 PM
Our VIP Happy Hour* is the perfect way to kick off the conference! Join us at Madden’s Wilson Bay from 5:30–7:00 PM for an evening of connection, featuring a wine tasting and charcuterie in a beautiful lakeside setting. This is your chance to mix and mingle—plus, you’ll have the opportunity to meet Lucie Amundsen, our keynote speaker, as well as our breakout session speakers and pitch presenters before the big day.
Make the most of your She Leads experience by staying at Madden’s—you’ll wake up refreshed and ready to dive into the conference the next morning! Book your room here by March 24 to receive the group room rate.
*Must purchase VIP ticket to attend.
Friday, April 25
The Main Event
7:30 - 8:15 AM
Optional Sunrise Yoga
Start Your Day with Intention
Ease into the day with a rejuvenating sunrise yoga session led by Notice Wellness. Connect with your breath, set your intentions, and prepare to embrace the opportunities ahead.
8:15 - 8:50 AM
Arrival & Registration
9:00 - 10:00 AM
Welcome & Keynote Speaker
Let’s Get Started!
Kick off the day with an inspiring keynote from Lucie Amundsen, an entrepreneur, author, and storyteller who challenges the status quo.
10:15 - 12:30 PM
Pitch Presentations (Private Sessions)
Engage, Learn, and Connect
Selected applicants will pitch their innovative ideas in a private session. While these presentations are closed, you’ll have the opportunity to meet these inspiring women and learn about their businesses later in the day!
10:15 - 12:30 PM
Morning Breakouts
Choose from engaging breakout sessions that offer valuable insights for your personal and professional growth.
12:30 - 1:30 PM
Lunch
Refuel & Recharge
Visit the Golf Villas next door to take a break to enjoy a delicious meal and connect with fellow attendees. Optional: Join us for a guided walk around Madden's to refresh and network in the great outdoors!
1:45 - 2:45 PM
Afternoon Breakout Sessions
Continue exploring thought-provoking topics and practical takeaways in your chosen session.
3:00 - 3:15 PM
Pitch Presenter Showcase
Celebrating Bold Ideas
Meet the talented individuals behind the pitches and celebrate their innovative ideas.
3:15 - 4:15 PM
Keynote Panel
Elevating the Conversation
Join our ceiling-shattering panelists as they share insights, experiences, and wisdom to empower your journey:
Marlene Johnson – First woman lieutenant governor of Minnesota, cofounder of the Minnesota Chapter of the National Association of Women Business Owners and the Minnesota Women’s Campaign Fund, and former ED and CEO of NAFSA: Association of International Educators.
Kathy Nelson – A trailblazer for women in STEM, Engineer, CEO & Founder of KN Utility Telecom Consulting, and host of the Ordinarily Extraordinary podcast
Jael Kerandi – First Black Undergraduate Student Body President of the University of Minnesota and current Finance Manager at Microsoft.
4:15 - 4:30 PM
Book Signing
Meet the Authors
Meet Marlene Johnson and get your copy of Rise to the Challenge signed by the author herself!
4:30 - 6:00 PM
Happy Hour
Cheers to a Day Well-Spent!
Wrap up the event with a celebratory happy hour—raise a glass, make new connections, and reflect on an incredible day.